Arrive in Seattle for the start of your Pacific Coast self drive.

Seattle is known as the ‘Emerald City’ because of the green hue of the waters that surround it. The downtown area of Seattle has many excellent restaurants and you have two nights here to enjoy the city area.

Graduate Hotel or similar

Spend your day exploring the sights and sounds of Seattle. Immerse yourself in daily life with a stroll through Pike Place Market, where fresh seafood and local crafts abound.

Visit the iconic Space Needle for panoramic view across the waterfront, explore the diverse exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture, and discover the glass sculptures at Chihuly Gardens.

Graduate Hotel or similar

Collect your hire car and from the city head across to the picturesque Oregon coastline. There is plenty of time for a quick detour along the way to Mount Rainier National Park.

Mount Rainier National Park, with its towering peak and pristine wilderness, offers visitors a chance to explore ancient forests, alpine meadows, and glacial features.

Continue to the seaside town of Astoria (setting for the 1980’s film ‘The Goonies’). The Astoria Column offers panoramic views of the Columbia River and the picturesque Riverwalk is lined with shops and eateries,

Seattle > Astoria | 177 miles

Bowline Hotel or similar

From Astoria follow the Columbia River inland to the city of Portland.

Known as the ‘City of Roses’ Portland is a big city which retains many small town charms.  You can explore the eclectic neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Hawthorne, where you can browse unique shops, galleries, and cafes.

You may also like to visit some of Portland’s landmarks such as Powell’s City of Books, one of the largest independent bookstores in the world, and the International Rose Test Garden, boasting thousands of roses in bloom.

Portland is renowned for its food scene which you can experience by sampling local cuisine at food carts, farmers’ markets, and trendy restaurants. 

Astoria > Portland | 99 miles

The Hotel Zags or similar

From Portland follow the scenic Columbia River Gorge along Highway 30. You could choose to visit Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon’s most iconic waterfalls. After taking in the stunning views and perhaps hiking to the upper viewing platform, head to the town of Hood River for lunch at one of its charming cafes or restaurants.

In the afternoon, consider following the Historic Columbia River Highway, stopping at various viewpoints and waterfalls along the way, such as Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Wahkeena Falls. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum to learn about the region’s history, geology, and natural beauty.

The Hotel Zags or similar

The road trip continues today towards Newport and Florence, by way of Seaside and Cannon Beach.

Seaside lies at the end of the Lewis & Clark trail, where the two explorers reached the Pacific Ocean. A monument celebrating the discovery stands at the circular loop drive where Broadway Street ends and the stairway down to the beachfront begins. Along the promenade, a two-mile long boardwalk, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy.

Just a few miles further you will encounter Cannon Beach, recognised by its well-known landmark, Haystack Rock. After a break here continue to Newport where the picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse welcomes you.

Portland > Florence | 172 miles
Best Western Pier Point Inn, Florence, or similar  

Start today’s journey by admiring the rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs as you drive along Highway 101. Consider stopping at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, where you can hike trails with stunning ocean views and visit the Devil’s Churn, a natural formation where waves crash against the rocks.

As you cross into California, be sure to stop at the Redwood National and State Parks, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Take a leisurely drive along the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic route that winds through ancient redwood groves, offering opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and photography.

Florence > Klamath | 202 miles

Holiday Inn Express Klamath or similar

Begin today by visiting the Klamath River Overlook for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Klamath River. As you continue southward, consider stopping at the Trees of Mystery, a unique attraction featuring towering redwoods and a gondola ride through the forest canopy.

Next, make a detour to explore the charming town of Trinidad, known for its scenic harbor and beautiful beaches. Take a stroll along Trinidad State Beach or hike the Trinidad Head Trail for panoramic views of the coastline.

Continue your journey south along Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, and marvel at the rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs. Consider stopping at Patrick’s Point State Park, where you can hike scenic trails, explore tide pools, and visit Wedding Rock for sweeping ocean views.

As you approach Fort Bragg, be sure to visit Glass Beach, a unique beach covered in colorful sea glass, a result of years of glass dumping. Take some time to explore the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens or browse the shops and art galleries in downtown Fort Bragg.

Klamath > Fort Bragg | 196 miles

Holiday Inn Express Fort Bragg or similar

Continue further into California by exploring Mendocino, a picturesque coastal town known for its Victorian architecture, art galleries, and stunning coastal views. Consider taking a stroll along the Mendocino Headlands State Park trails or visiting the Point Cabrillo Light Station.

Continue southward along Highway 1 and enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged coastline as you drive through the quaint towns of Elk and Gualala. Consider stopping at Salt Point State Park to hike scenic trails, explore tide pools, or enjoy a picnic overlooking the ocean.

As you reach Sonoma County, consider a detour to explore the charming town of Healdsburg, known for its wine tasting rooms, boutique shops, and farm-to-table dining experiences. Take some time to explore the historic Healdsburg Plaza or visit a nearby winery to sample award-winning wines.

Finally, arrive in Napa Valley, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s world-renowned wine culture. Consider taking a wine tour or visiting one of the many wineries in the area to taste exquisite wines and enjoy beautiful vineyard views. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at one of Napa Valley’s fine restaurants or explore downtown Napa’s vibrant culinary scene.

Fort Bragg > Napa Valley | 135 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Napa or similar

Continuing further south you will soon spot the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Along the way, you will pass Muir Woods National Monument and Sausalito. Located at the North end of the Golden Gate Bridge this town is a nice place to stop and take a break before making your way into San Francisco.

After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to wander the colourful waterfront.

Napa Valley > San Francisco | 69 miles

The Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel or similar

Today, you are free to discover the many sights and sounds of San Francisco. Perhaps take a cable car ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square, or visit the famous Alcatraz Island.

This evening, dine in one of San Francisco’s many distinctive neighbourhoods, from Chinatown to the very Italian flavoured North Beach, each offers its own distinctive culture and cuisine.

Optional Experience – San Francisco Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
See San Francisco from the top of an authentic English Double Decker Bus! This is a fully narrated sightseeing tour. Enjoy the city lights and skyline on the Night Loop.

Optional Experience – Alcatraz Island Tour
Welcome to Alcatraz; once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals. Delve into the island’s remarkable history on this essential tour.

The Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel or similar

Bid farewell the ‘City by the Bay’ and head to the airport for your flight to the UK, or choose to extend your stay in San Francisco to discover more of this wonderful city. 

San Francisco > Airport | 13 miles